OBJECTIVE: This article provides information regarding the policies and protocols for COVID-19 at Help at Home for Homemaker/PSA only
(HomeHealth follow CDC HCP guidelines found here Infection Control Guidance: SARS-CoV-2 | COVID-19 | CDC).
At Help at Home, Employee and Client health and safety are top of mind. Help at Home follows the instruction and guidance as issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Please see information below related to COVID: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC.
The health and welfare of you and our clients are of the utmost importance. Help at Home continues to follow CDC guidance regarding COVID and other viruses.
Here are a few reminders on how to stay healthy:
- Wash your hands thoroughly! Clean hands prevent germs.
- Keep your vaccines up to date; this includes COVID and Flu. (Clinical Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccination | CDC)
- Take steps for cleaner air, such as bringing in more fresh air, purifying indoor air or gathering outdoors. Taking Steps for Cleaner Air for Respiratory Virus Prevention | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC
Stay home when you are sick, and please notify your leader.
Click here for the full list of Policies: Help at Home HR Handbooks, Policies, and Forms - Policies - All Documents (sharepoint.com).
COVID-19 FAQ
What is COVID-19
COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. It can be very contagious and spreads quickly. Over one million people have died from COVID-19 in the United States.
COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. COVID-19 may attack more than your lungs and respiratory system. Other parts of your body may also be affected by the disease. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
Some people including those with minor or no symptoms will develop Post-COVID Conditions – also called “Long COVID.”
How does COVID-19 spread?
COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. Other people can breathe in these droplets and particles, or these droplets and particles can land on their eyes, nose, or mouth. In some circumstances, these droplets may contaminate surfaces they touch.
Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do NOT have symptoms.
The risk of animals spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to people is low. The virus can spread from people to animals during close contact. People with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals.
Where can I learn more about COVID-19?
What should I do if I have been exposed to COVID?
Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You're Sick | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC
If within 6 feet for a cumulative of 15 minutes without PPE over a 24 hour period:
- Wear a mask as soon as you find out you were exposed for 10 days following exposure
- Monitor for symptoms
- Get tested at least 5 days after you were exposed
What should I do if I test positive for COVID?
- Isolate immediately until the following are met:
- Fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medications
- Symptoms are improving
- Wear a mask for 5 days after above criteria is met
- Visit your healthcare provider if needed
Where can I find the COVID Medical Exemption Form?
Click here for the COVID Medical Exemption Form: COVID Medical Exemption Form (HAH)
Where can I request PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Contact your local branch for any PPE needs.
How can I collect my COVID Quarantine and Hazard Pay?
COVID Quarantine and Hazard Pay policies are no longer in effect.
Where can I find the Client Screening Responses/Employee Screening Responses?
Refer to the following documents. Please note that these are for Administrative Use Only
For additional Information see attachment for CDC Respiratory guidelines
Helpful Videos
Fight Germs, Wash Your Hands
Proper Use & Re-use of Face Masks
How to Put On Gloves
Source: Clinical Quality Team